Cristiano Ronaldo has transformed into the complete player - Man United’s Ferguson

The illustrious manager bought Ronaldo from Sporting Lisbon back in 2003. He allocated the player with Manchester United’s legendary number 7 jersey and produced the best out of him.

In 2009, Alex Ferguson agreed to let Cristiano Ronaldo quit Old Trafford for Real Madrid in a record-breaking £80M transfer. Reflecting on the Portuguese star’s progress down the years, Fergie told Inside United on Thursday:

“Maturity brings many things. When I went to see them play against [Manchester] City, some of his decision-making in terms of passing was brilliant. One-touch passing, good crosses.

“In the six years we had him, you just saw his game grow all the time, and he was a fantastic player. Now you see the complete player.

“His decision-making, his maturity, his experience, plus all the great skills he has got, they all make him the complete player.”

Meanwhile, Real Madrid and Manchester United will clash in the Last 16 of the UEFA Champions League.

On March 5, old Manchester United boy Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to have an honourable return to the Theatre of Dreams where he spent six seasons and tasted glory the English Premier League, the FA Cup, the Carling Cup and the Champions League.